How to Become a Notary Public in Vermont
To become a Notary in Vermont, follow these steps:
- Head to the Office of Professional Regulation’s (OPR) website and create an account. This will be your hub for the application process.
- Download and complete the Oath of Office form. You’ll need to get it notarized by another Notary Public.
- Fill out the online Notary Public application on the OPR website. Don’t forget to upload your completed and notarized Oath of Office form.
- Pay the $30 application fee.
- You’ll need to take and pass the Vermont Notary Public exam.
- The OPR will review your application. They might contact you for additional information.
- You’ll be notified via email if your application is approved.
- Once approved, you can access your commission electronically through your OPR account.
- While not mandatory, getting a Notary Public stamp and journal is highly recommended.
- Consider getting Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to reduce your financial risks.
- If you want some extra guidance, consider taking Notary education courses from reputable sources like the BlueNotary Academy.
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What are the Requirements to Become a Notary in Vermont?
To become a Notary Public in Vermont, you’ll need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident.
- Either be a resident of Vermont or currently employed within the state.
- You cannot be disqualified from holding the position by Vermont law. (For details on disqualifying factors, consult the Vermont Secretary of State’s office or legal resources.)
If you meet these qualifications, you can proceed with the steps to become a Vermont Notary Public!
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Notary Public in Vermont?
The cost of becoming a Notary in Vermont is:
- A $30 application filing fee.
- Notary Public Seal and Journal: The price can vary depending on the vendor you choose.
- Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance: This is optional but recommended. The cost will depend on the insurance provider and the coverage amount you select.
- Notary supplies and training: These are also optional, but especially for new Notaries, training materials, manuals, or workshops can be helpful. The cost will vary depending on the resources you choose.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Notary in Vermont?
The Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) typically takes one to two weeks to process your application after you submit it. Some steps, like getting your Oath of Office notarized, depend on your ability to schedule that task.
What Supplies Do Vermont Notaries Need?
While Vermont doesn’t require specific supplies, having some essentials can make your life as a Notary Public much easier and more professional. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:
Notary Stamp (Optional): This is not mandatory but highly recommended.
If you choose to use a stamp, it must include your legal name, jurisdiction (Vermont), and commission number. The stamp should be high-quality and produce clear, non-bleeding impressions to avoid document rejection. Consider getting a spare stamp in case of loss or damage.
Embosser (Optional):
This creates a raised seal on the document, adding an extra layer of security and professionalism. It’s not mandatory, but some clients might prefer it.
Notary Journal (Optional):
This is not required but strongly recommended. A journal helps you keep a record of all your notarizations, which can be helpful for your own reference keeping and potentially for legal purposes.
Other Supplies:
Depending on your needs, you might also consider getting a notary signing kit, which can include items like a pen with notary wording, document stamps, and a seal impression pad.
How long does a Notary commission last in Vermont?
Vermont Notary Public Commissions expire every two years, and the renewal period falls on odd-numbered years.
What About Bonds or Insurance for Vermont Notaries?
Unlike some states, Vermont doesn’t mandate the purchase of a surety bond for notaries. However, many Vermont Notaries choose to get an E&O insurance. This type of insurance can help cover your legal fees if a mistake you make as a Notary leads to a lawsuit. It acts as a safety net for your financial protection.
Ultimately, the decision to get E&O insurance is up to you. Consider your risk tolerance and comfort level when deciding if this optional coverage is right for you.
Vermont Notary Public FAQs
Who Oversees Notaries in Vermont?
The Vermont Secretary of State’s Office, specifically the Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), located in Montpelier, VT, is the government office that oversees Notary Public commissions in the state. They’ll be your point of contact throughout the application process and for any renewals in the future.
Do I need Training to Become a Notary in Vermont?
Currently, Vermont doesn’t require new Notary Public applicants to take any mandatory training courses. However, things change for renewals. If you’re renewing your Vermont Notary commission, you’ll need to complete one hour of continuing education before submitting your renewal application.
Where will I be able to notarize?
As a Vermont Notary Public, your commission grants you the authority to perform notarizations anywhere within Vermont’s borders. There are no geographic restrictions within the state for you to complete your notary duties. This flexibility allows you to serve clients throughout Vermont.
Who can I notarize for?
You can typically provide notary services to anyone who meets the legal requirements and isn’t restricted by the above limitations. Just don’t notarize documents where you have a personal interest. Furthermore, confirm the person’s ID and that the notarization is for a valid reason.
Finally, check with your employer for any limitations on who you can notarize during work hours.
How much can I charge for my notary services?
In 2019, Vermont did away with the previous fee schedule, allowing Notaries to determine their own reasonable rates. The best practice is to inform your clients about your notary fees upfront to avoid any confusion or disagreements about payment. You can clearly state your fees on your business card or website (if you have one) or verbally before performing the notarization.
Is Online Notary Legal in Vermont?
Yes, Vermont legalized online notarization, also known as Remote Online Notarization (RON), on July 1, 2022, with the signing of House Bill 512. This means Vermont Notaries can now perform notarizations electronically on electronic documents.
This shift to online notarization offers benefits like increased accessibility and convenience for both Notaries and clients.
What happens if I move or change my name after becoming a Notary?
If you move or change your legal name, it’s crucial to update your information with the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) within 30 days. There’s no fee for this process, and you can conveniently handle it online through your OPR account on their Online Licensing platform.
- Address Change: Simply log in to your OPR account and update your current address information.
- Name Change: In addition to updating your address in your OPR account, you’ll also need to upload two documents:
- Proof of Name Change: This could be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or any other court document that legally validates your new name.
- Revised Oath of Office/Affirmation Form: Download a new form, fill it out with your new legal name and signature, and upload it to your OPR account.
How do I renew my Vermont Notary Public Commission?
Keeping your Vermont Notary Public Commission active is easy! Renewals happen every two years but only in odd-numbered years. The deadline to renew is January 31st. Here’s what’s new: unlike when you first became a Notary, renewals now require you to take a one-hour online continuing education course.
The renewal process itself is likely handled online through the Vermont Secretary of State’s Office. You’ll use your OPR account to submit your renewal application and upload proof that you finished your one-hour course. There are many online resources like the BlueNotary Academy, so you can choose the one that works best for you.
To make things even simpler, remember two key points: renew on time and complete your one-hour course. By following these steps, you’ll ensure a smooth renewal process and be able to continue serving as a Vermont Notary Public.
How do I become an Online Notary in Vermont?
We have already explained how to do this in our How to Become an Online Notary in Vermont guide. It is an in-depth guide that gives all you need to become a notary in Vermont for online purposes.
